The Greek Catholic Сlergy of Eastern Galicia in the Context of the Development of Art as an Important Factor in Deepening the National Consciousness of Ukrainians in the Cultural and Creative Expanse of the Region (in the 20th century 20s-40s)

Abstract

The aim of the article is to demonstrate the influence of the Greek Catholic Clergy of Eastern Galicia on the development of theater and cinema of the region in the 20th century between 20’s and the first half of the 40’s.Research methodology. Scientific papers, memoir literature on the subject have been reviewed. Much of the source materials (letters, appeals, reports) can be found in the funds of the Central State Historical Archive of Ukraine in Lviv and the press of that time.Results. It has been determined that the priests organized amateur groups at the branches of the Prosvita Society whose repertoire included multi-act performances by predominantly Ukrainian classic writers. The Polish Authorities sought to prevent the work of amateur groups in every possible way. The priests sought permission from the Polish Authorities on the staging the plays, and also supported the activities of professional actors who created works of religious and national-patriotic themes. The Society of St. Mary (cinema division) distributed among young people movies based on religious high morality, the revenues were intended for the poor and the needy. The opening of the foundation of the Assumption Temple of the 12th century on the territory of the capital of the Principality of Galicia–Volyne, funded by the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, became the basis for the creation of the color film «Krylos» by the Galician artists. The film was not completed due to the start of the Second World War.Novelty. For the first time an attempt has been made in this paper to reveal the activities and repertoire of amateur theater groups at the branches of the Prosvita Society of Eastern Galicia under the direction of local priests. Also, for the first time an attempt has been made to highlight the role of the Greek Catholic Clergy in cinema in the region and in the specified period.The practical significance. The results of the article can be used in lectures on the Ukrainian theater, Ukrainian cinema, Ukrainian culture. Researchers may find the information contained in this paper useful for writing the biographical publications on the Greek Catholic Clergy of Eastern Galicia.